The O cial Magazine of Cares Summer/Autumn 2017 Specialist Insurance For Sports Professionals

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“QUOTE RUGBY LEAGUE CARES” @AllSportInsure +44 (0)1803 659121 Visit: www.allsportinsurance.co.uk elcome to this summer edition of One in, All In, our new- styled twice-yearly newsletter. W The feedback we received on the new format was fantastic and we hope you enjoy catching up on the work of Rugby League Cares and its supporters that is detailed in this magazine. It continues to be an extremely busy time for the RL Cares team and since our last newsletter in January the charity has moved forward in a variety of ways. In April, we launched our new men’s mental health and wellbeing programme, O­ oad. The programme is funded by the Big Lottery and is a unique collaboration between Rugby League Cares, State of Mind and the Wolves, Vikings and Red Devils club foundations. We are delighted with the progress being made on the programme, which is being expertly managed by a new member of the RL Cares team, Emma Goldsmith. Emma’s background is in public health and there are some very exciting plans being developed to extend and enhance our fan-focused health services. Our player welfare programme has received a signifi cant boost with former Rhinos and international WELCOME joining the team on a concepts and framework for what the new amazing to be able to share this story with part-time basis. museum will ultimately deliver and provide so many and we are all hopeful of a positive Keith’s role includes liaising with players for its visitors, the sport and the broader outcome in the New Year. to ensure that they are aware of our community, including schools, Rugby We cannot do any of this work without services and can benefi t from our various League clubs and their foundations. the amazing support we receive from fans, programmes. Detailed work has taken place to develop players and oŸ cials, who all do so much The RL Cares Business Club is a a Stage One application to the Heritage to help us. wonderful example of a programme we Lottery Fund. Our bid will be submitted You can read more about the various manage for the benefi t of players and we at the end of November and we will be fundraising and support we receive in this are delighted to welcome a number of informed of the outcome in early 2018. edition of One in, All In. Everything from prestigious new members to this ever- Regardless of the result, the trustees individual donations and a Legends game to growing club. and sta› would like to congratulate the fund-raising dinners and crazy challenges. Stratstone BMW Harrogate, Barclays Heritage team, led by Brigid Power, for their It is on the point of crazy challenges, that Premier Banking and Frank Exchange all outstanding e› orts developing the bid. I will sign o› this welcome. On 21st August, joined the programme in the fi rst part of Brigid has worked closely with colleagues at 15 riders, including myself, will take on a 2017 and join our existing partners Purple Council to develop a project that 320-mile cycle challenge from Leeds to Travel, All Sport Insurance and AFEX. will deliver a truly wonderful experience to . Through their support, we are able to do so visitors and enhance the wider sport. What makes this challenge a little bit much more for the playing community. One key benefi t of the museum is that it di› erent is it will all take place o› -road, Since we announced our ambitions for will introduce Rugby League to many people which I am reliably told will make it even a Museum in late who have little or no experience of the harder. We’ve received a great head 2016 an enormous amount of work has game. Our history is unique and something start, however, with huge support from a taken place. This includes developing the that we are all very proud of: it will be number of sponsors including UK Red Fire and Security, Boilers, NL Van, Truck and Car Hire, All Sport Insurance, Environmental Services Design, Infi nity Works, the Club Foundation and Halfords. If you would like to make a donation please go to www.justgiving.com/ It continues to be an extremely busy companyteams/L2W2017 If you would like to discuss becoming a time for the RL Cares team and since business club partner or getting involved with Rugby League Cares in any way to our last newsletter we have moved help with our work, please contact me at [email protected] or call forward in a variety of ways... 07917 282322. In the meantime, as Captain Oates almost said, I’m just going for a bike ride, and may be some time…!

3  @r lcares ONE IN, ALL IN THE RUGBY LEAGUE CARES MAGAZINE, SUMMER/AUTUMN 2017 One In, All In... Contents About Rugby League Cares

Rugby League Cares is the sport’s independent Ž‘ Business Club charity which works with stakeholders from across Practical support for all Rugby League players the game to provide current and former players with Ž’ Coming up: Roses practical and fi nancial assistance in areas such Legends get ready to go head-to-head as education, training and welfare. Working with club Ž” In the driving seat foundations, the charity also provides targeted health A big welcome to our new partner, Stratstone BMW and wellbeing support to the sport’s community, protects •Ž Get ready to O– oad and nurtures the game’s rich heritage and, through The men’s health project that’s making a real di“ erence the RFL Benevolent Fund, supports players who have •‘ A sackful of good news experienced life-changing injuries. To help fulfi l its role The partner that’s put RL Cares in the van… supporting the whole Rugby League family, RL Cares •’ A roaring good time always welcomes donations no matter how big or small: Pride and passion as the Lions reunite in numbers to make a donation to RL Cares please visit our Just •— John Burke Giving page, www.justgiving. com/rugbyleaguecares How the RFL Benevolent Fund is helping an injured hero

For all enquiries, please ™Ž Westminster blues email: [email protected] The former MP who still has Rugby League at his heart

™› Memories are made of this One In, All In is produced The clubs that are transforming the lives of dementia su“ erers and edited by John Ledger on behalf of Rugby League ™œ Question Time Cares. We would like to thank all our contributors The law according to RL legend and RL Cares trustee, for their support, including SWPix, Matthew Merrick ™— Less dangerous than pony riding and Rugby League Journal for their photography. Why Rugby League isn’t as dangerous as some people fear

Published by: ›Ž Peaky blinder The funny side of life’s ups and downs

›™ Down the virtual lane 01347 821344 Tigers go back to the future Printed by: S&G Print Group ›œ The road less travelled The fundraisers getting to Wembley the hard way

4 www.rugbyleaguecares.org RL CARES BUSINESS CLUB

he reality of life as a insurance premiums and increased Most professional sportsmen will earn professional Rugby League awareness of the fi rst-class service All signifi cantly more than their non-playing player is a long way from the Sport Insurance provide is seeing more friends and contemporaries, but the short T perception some people have players get good deals. and uncertain nature of rugby careers of fat contracts, fl ash cars and Another aspect of their lives where makes it essential that players manage all the trappings of fame. players and their families are often at their salaries wisely. Whilst players are well rewarded - at least a disadvantage is holidays and travel, “We are delighted to have secured an compared to most young men of their age largely because of the demanding nature agreement with Barclays to give players - their careers are short, fi lled with pressure of a season which allows for a very small access to their world class Premier and uncertainty, and often leave them window of opportunity to get away. Banking service,” said Chris. “Barclays disadvantaged. Most players report for pre-season Premier Banking will help players with their The newly-formed Rugby League Cares training in December and then train and daily banking needs and provide access Business Club has been set up to o set play all the way through to the following to a wide range of exclusive products some of those disadvantages and involves October, when high street travel agents and services.” the charity working in partnership with a often have limited holiday options. RL Cares has also forged a partnership number of service providers to enhance “One player told us that he’d gone away with Stratstone BMW that will give players the lives of the game’s most important with his family at the end of the season full access to a prestigious range of stakeholders: its players. hoping to escape Rugby League for two vehicles from BMW and MINI. From banking and holidays to education weeks, only to go down for breakfast on As a member of the RL Cares Business and training grants, players now have easy the fi rst day of his holiday to discover eight Club, Stratstone will provide leasing, access to services that enable them to other players with their fi nance and purchase option at market- focus fully on their all-too-short careers. families in the dining room!” said Chris. leading rates to Rugby League players and Chris Rostron, the Head of Rugby League “That didn’t go down too well with his their families. Cares, said: “We are all full of admiration for wife, who was hoping she’d have him all what the players do on the fi eld but often to herself!” the perception of what being a professional RL Cares has agreed a partnership with Rugby League player involves is at odds Sunderland-based online travel specialists with the reality. Purple Travel to ensure that players who “The Business Club provides a wide have trained hard and worked hard all range of services that help players, year don’t have to try too hard to get particularly in areas where the nature the best deal for their holiday or mid- of their occupation can put them at a season break. disadvantage.” Purple Travel’s specialist sta use One such area is car insurance: their expertise to put together tailored sportsmen and sportswomen are regarded packages at the best possible prices for as high-risk by many insurance companies Rugby League players, who also get free and it can be di„ cult for Super League access to upgrades, where available from players to fi nd a ordable cover. a wide range of operators. However, RL Cares has teamed up with “Purple Travel’s expertise and best- one of the UK’s leading brokers, All Sport price guarantee means that wherever Insurance who specialise in insuring players in the world players want to spend their and athletes across a wide range of sports. hard-earned rest and relaxation time, they All Sport recognises the unique demands can do so safe in the knowledge that they of professional sportsmen and o ers a have access to the best holidays at the personal out-of-o„ ce hours’ service so best possible prices,” said Chris. players can concentrate fully on their The latest additions to the RL Cares playing commitments. Business Club stable of partners are Many Super League stars are already two of the world’s best known and most saving hundreds of pounds on their trusted brands, BMW and Barclays.

5  @r lcares ONE IN, ALL IN THE RUGBY LEAGUE CARES MAGAZINE, SUMMER/AUTUMN 2017

RUGBY LEAGUE CARES BULLETIN BOARD

Cas historical guide hits the shelves Ellis Rugby MD (left) with Lions Association committee members John Ledger, and David Howe have lit up Super League like never before in 2017, delighting fans old and new alike with their high-speed brand of entertaining Rugby League. RL Lions to launch heritage range Their 91st season has undoubtedly been the club’s most successful - Castleford The Rugby League Lions Association Association, which works closely with have never fi nished on top of the league has teamed up with Ellis Rugby to Rugby League Cares on its reunions and table before this year - but there have produce a licensed heritage collection of welfare programmes. been plenty more highs over the last nine leisurewear inspired by the some of the Kevin Ellis, the MD of Ellis Rugby and a decades, as a new book details. game’s greatest players. former professional player with , Thirty years after the last defi nitive The fi rst range, in what is hoped to be a said: “We are absolutely delighted to be statistical history of Castleford Tigers was full catalogue of Great Britain collections, commissioned to design and manufacture published, the son and grandson of that will be launched in mid-October and is the range - the 1980s was a golden era for book have produced an updated version based around the jersey worn in the late- international Rugby League and I’m sure telling the 90-year story of one of the 1980s and early-1990s. the garments will ož er a nostalgic appeal.” game’s proudest clubs. In this period, coach Malcolm Reilly led John Ledger, the Secretary of the Rugby ‘Castleford Rugby League Football Club, a stirring revival of Great Britain following League Lions Association, said: “We are A 90 Years Statistical and Pictorial Record heavy Test series defeats by really excited by this partnership with Ellis 1926-2016’ by Ian and Roy Garbutt builds in the early-80s to restore pride in the Rugby which allows us to celebrate the on the 60-year history produced by Len national jersey. With legends of the game glorious history of the Lions and Great Garbutt in 1986. such as , Martin O– ah, Shaun Britain. That book sold out within a matter of Edwards, , Kevin Ward “The Lions Association is very grateful months and the updated version deserves and Garry Schofi eld at the peak of their for the support of the RFL and its Chief to enjoy similar success, packed as it is powers, Great Britain became a force to be Executive Nigel Wood, who recognises the with information and images detailing reckoned with. important role the Lions continue to play in the exploits of some of Rugby League’s This launch of the fi rst collection will the story of international Rugby League.” greatest heroes. coincide with the 2017 Rugby League The Rugby League Lions heritage Published by Scratching Shed being staged in Australia, New collection will be retailed through rugby Publications, ‘Castleford Rugby League Zealand and . The specialists, general sports shops online Football Club, A 90 Years Statistical and agreement will see profi ts from every at www.ellisrugby.com and through the Pictorial Record 1926-2016’ costs £17.95 sale donated to the Rugby League Lions Rugby League club shops from October. and is available from all good bookshops.

RL CARES CONGRATULATES TERRY FLANAGAN MBE Rugby League Cares’s outstanding work within the “I am very proud and honoured to receive the sport was recognised in the Queen’s Birthday Honours MBE, and I fi rmly believe this is a team award for all List when our former chairman, Terry Flanagan, was the amazing things I have been involved in over the awarded an MBE for services to Rugby League. years,” said Terry. Terry did some outstanding work as our founding Chris Rostron, the Head of RL Cares, said: “We chairman and continues to be a massive supporter of would like to congratulate Terry on his MBE, which is the charity. richly deserved. The sport still plays a huge part in the life of the “Terry’s impact on the sport has been immense: former and Great Britain player, who is his vision and hard work with RL Cares continues to president of Saddleworth Rangers and father of Salford make a positive diž erence to the lives of many people Red Devils player, Mark Flanagan. in the sport.”

6 www.rugbyleaguecares.org RUGBY LEAGUE CARES FUNDRAISING NEWS

Bradford City Hall to open its doors

The location of the new National Rugby Eight members of the fi rst-ever Student RL team reunited in Leeds 50 years on League Museum, Bradford City Hall, will throw open its doors in September as part of the National Heritage Open Days campaign. INAUGURAL STUDENT RUGBY LEAGUE As well as tours of the historic Grade 1-listed building, Rugby League Cares TEAM CELEBRATES HALF CENTURY volunteers will be on site delivering a wide A weekend of celebrations to same pitch at the Soldier’s Field, Roundhay. range of Rugby League-related activities for commemorate the 50th anniversary of the That get-together followed a hugely all the family. foundation of the fi rst-ever student Rugby successful sequence of events the day The National RL Museum is scheduled League team raised over £1,500 for Rugby before, including the traditional Old Boys to open in 2020 and RL Cares is currently League Cares. v Current Students game and a formal submitting applications for grant funding to The donation was the proceeds from a dinner attended by nearly 200 people at deliver a world class facility that the sport formal dinner and other events at Leeds Stadium. has always lacked. University in March, when students past The university also unveiled a blue Visitors to City Hall will be able to and present came together to celebrate plaque outside the Students’ Union ‘Old see some fascinating Rugby League one of the sport’s great success stories. Bar’ to mark the occasion where the memorabilia and watch rare vintage fi lm Leeds University was the inspiration Union General Athletics Committee took of old matches from the sport’s archives, behind the rapid growth of Rugby League the momentous decision to approve the as well as build their own Rugby League in colleges and universities after the formation of the fi rst university Rugby stadium out of Lego. Fans can also try their newly-formed team played its fi rst match League team. hand at stop-go animation and bring their in March 1967. The Head of RL Cares, Chris Rostron, own Rugby League hero to life with state- And, 50 years to the day since that said: “We would like to congratulate of-the-art Stop Animation using their own momentous game against the General everyone involved with the Leeds mobile phones or tablets. Accident insurance company in Leeds, University Rugby League team on reaching Admission is free, with activities taking eight of the original squad met up with this momentous milestone and thank them place between 10am and 4pm on Saturday other former and current players on the for their generous donation to the charity.” 9th September.

WAR OF ROSES ORIGIN IS BACK Some of the sport’s greatest players will turn back the clock on Wednesday 30th August when a much-missed feature of the Rugby League calendar makes a welcome return. It has been 14 years since professional players went head to head with county pride at stake, but the War of the Roses Origin is back on at in Leeds. And though some of the participants will be wearing boots slowed by a thick covering of dust, a fi ery and intense contest is guaranteed given the high calibre of the players involved. Yorkshire’s ranks include Jamie Peacock MBE, Keith Senior, , Mark Calderwood, Robbie Hunter-Paul, and , while the Red Rose ranks features a wealth of talent led by , Barrie McDermott, , , , and Jon Clarke. will be coached by and captained by , with Yorkshire coached by and led on the fi eld by Jamie Peacock. The Yorkshire v Lancashire Legends match is being staged on behalf of Rugby League Cares, and the testimonials of Ryan Hall and Martin Gleeson. They were brothers in arms for Great Britain but Jamie Peacock and A drian Morley will be sworn Tickets costs just £10 for adults, £5 for concessions (over-60s, students and under-21s) enemies when Yorkshire Legends take on Lancashire and £3 for juniors (under-16s) and are available from the Leeds Rugby Store at Headingley Legends in the War of the Roses Origin game Carnegie Stadium, online at www.therhinos.co.uk or by calling 0371 423 1315.

7  @r lcares CAR OF THE YEAR 2017 NEW PARTNERSHIP GUARANTEES SHEER DRIVING PLEASURE ugby League Cares has playing community, and that many of our Charles Shaw, Head of Business at partnered with Stratstone players are often paying too much for Stratstone Harrogate (pictured left), said: BMW to give the sport’s most their cars. “We are proud to partner with Rugby R important stakeholders, its “The fantastic partnership with League Cares and welcome the players, full access to some of one of the country’s most opportunity to be part of the local the world’s most desirable cars at market- respected retail centres rugby community. Ideally located leading prices. means players can in the heart of Yorkshire, we are Founded in 1921, Stratstone are the UK’s purchase their next new looking forward to showcasing leading automotive retailer of prestige car confi dent that they the versatility of the extensive and premium cars and o€ er an unrivalled, are getting the best BMW model range alongside personalised service to customers. car they can a€ ord at exclusive o€ ers and of This exciting new partnership with RL the best possible price. course the very best in BMW Cares will give players access to vehicles I would like to thank hospitality.” from the full BMW and MINI range supplied Stratstone BMW Harrogate The RL Cares Business Club by Stratstone Harrogate; players will also for the enthusiasm they have was set up to provide a range receive special rates on fi nance options and shown throughout our dialogue of services to players in areas servicing. to establish this partnership. where their careers can leave them Chris Rostron, the Head of Rugby “It’s clear that Stratstone BMW disadvantaged. League Cares, said: “We are delighted to Harrogate understand the needs of our With more disposable income than most welcome Stratstone BMW Harrogate as playing community and are committed young men of their age, players do not the latest members of the Rugby League to working with players to ensure they always receive the best fi nancial advice or Cares Business Club. We know that BMW experience the sheer driving pleasure that have the time to take the best decisions is a hugely popular marque among the comes with BMW ownership.” when making important purchases. The RL Cares Business Club’s partners are all committed to providing players with class-leading advice and service. The other members of the RL Cares Business Club are Barclays Premier Banking, All Sport Insurance, AFEX and Purple Travel. For more information on Stratstone BMW Harrogate please visit www.stratstone.com/bmw

Rugby League players now have access to the full range of BMW cars at best prices through Stratstone BMW Harrogate

9  @r lcares ONE IN, ALL IN THE RUGBY LEAGUE CARES MAGAZINE, SUMMER/AUTUMN 2017

OFFLOAD PROGRAMME TACKLING MEN'S MENTAL WELLBEING ISSUES

ugby League Cares is helping Mental illness, often through depression, in the sport but not brought together and challenge how the sporting is the leading cause of disability in the UK often working in isolation,” added Chris. world tackles issues around and costs the economy over £70billion per “Lots of progress had been made R men’s mental fitness and year. Almost one in 10 men will suffer from with a Sport Relief grant from 2012-14 wellbeing with its exciting new depression at some point in their lives. when 12 club foundations delivered local Offload project. In 2013, 6,233 people in the UK projects supporting wellbeing in their The charity is delivering the Big Lottery- committed suicide, a four per cent increase local communities. Evaluating this work funded project at three Super League clubs, on 2012: whilst the national suicide rate was highlighted how successful foundations are , and 10.7 deaths per 100,000 people, the rate at engaging what are considered hard-to- , and is already receiving was over 13 per 100,000 in many parts of reach groups. widespread acclaim for its work. the north. A staggering 78 per cent “One group in particular stood out: Designed and delivered with of all suicides were male. men. What was clear during these early the help of State of Mind and The process of devising and conversations was the genuine desire from other agencies, Offload is securing the funding for the all parties of the need to work with men open to all men aged 16 and project that would become and the difference the sport could make in over. It involves participants Offload began in 2015. Initial engaging men into the programme. engaging with current conversations involved State of “State of Mind had been amazingly and former professional Mind and a small number of club successful in raising awareness of the players and officials to foundations who were already issue and reducing the stigma associated learn techniques that Rugby delivering excellent public with mental illness. Their programme League clubs use to manage health-focused projects for the was revolutionary and was delivering the mental and physical fitness of players. benefit of their local communities. outstanding results. The foundations have Over the course of the 10-week ‘season of Those conversations became more the capability to connect with their local fixtures’, men build their own mental fitness formal and the group made the decision communities and already have experience with humour in a relaxed atmosphere and to constitute itself as the Health and of working on public health programmes. develop coping strategies to challenge Wellbeing in Rugby League Group whose “The limitation was funding. We were difficult situations and learn how to purpose would be to support Rugby League encouraged to speak to the Big Lottery recognise when people close to them may communities to improve their health and regarding potential funding and Rugby need their support. wellbeing. League Cares, with the support of the In many ways, Rugby League has led the “Leading up to the point of creating a Salford Red Devils Foundation, led early way with its work on depression and mental formal health and wellbeing group, there conversations with the North West Big illness, especially since the death of Terry was lots of best practice already happening Lottery offices. Newton, the former Great Britain who committed suicide in 2010. That tragedy served to focus the minds of many clubs and people within the game of the need to protect both the physical and mental welfare of players, both past and present. The work that has taken place Players from Warrington, since has seen clubs reach out to their local Salford and Widnes communities and share some of the best featured in a fantastic O oad launch video practice they have developed. “Rugby League clubs continue to operate within the heart of their local communities, many of which show statistically higher than average levels of mental illness, especially in men,” said the Head of Rugby League Cares, Chris Rostron. “Offload was born from the recognition that the game, working through the clubs, is the perfect vehicle to deliver help to some people who need it most.”

10  www.rugbyleaguecares.org The O oad project was launched with a fanfare in front of the cameras at the Widnes v Warrington fi xture in April

Rugby League Cares is looking to broaden Salford Red Devils players have actively engaged with the O oad project across all clubs the O oad programme and its link with Oddballs

“Feedback from the Lottery was Dr Cooper has put together much of men in the north of and she was encouraging, although measured in that the the Offload content and recruited the considered to be the perfect fit for Rugby process is very competitive, and it was clear current and former players, coaches and League Cares’s new men’s mental health that a considerable amount of work was officials who will share the benefits of their programme.” needed before the charity could submit a experiences with participants. RL Cares Health Programme Manager bid and for the application to be successful.” State of Mind also mentors the people Emma Goldsmith said: “The stigma of poor Many hands make light work, however, involved in the delivery and is fine tuning mental fitness is being lifted and Offload especially when those hands are attached the programme as it evolves. will aim to get across the message that no- to experts with a clear vision for what the Throughout the 10 fixtures, which begin one need ever suffer alone. project should and could achieve. with an induction process that all players “We would love as many men as possible One of the key points raised was whether go through when they join a new club, to engage with the project and begin fans actually wanted services supporting participants learn many of the techniques enjoying improved mental and physical their mental health and wellbeing. With the used by sports professionals to develop fitness.” support of the Warrington Wolves, Widnes good mental fitness, including how to cope Since her appointment, Emma has put Vikings and Salford Red Devils charitable under pressure and developing a positive everything in place to ensure that the foundations, RL Cares conducted a fans’ mindset. project is high quality, safe and, most survey and it quickly emerged that if a “We use a lot of sporting analogies and importantly, successful. service was available, supporters - and in much of what is discussed has its basis in But it doesn’t end there: one of RL particular, men - would use it. what takes place within a Rugby League Cares’s key priorities is to take the project State of Mind co-founder Dr Phil Cooper club, which makes it perfect for fans to across the whole sport and to build in new MBE believes Offload has the capacity to relate to,” added Dr Cooper. opportunities for a broader constituency change how healthcare professionals tackle “The pilot involves just three clubs but to benefit from a Rugby League-led health the issue of mental fitness in men, who are Offload has the potential to provide a project. often reluctant to engage with other health template for every Rugby League club and This could be women and girls, young services. indeed clubs in other major sports.” and older people; everyone where there “If you ask most men if they’d like to sign The process of applying for funding took is a need. Chris added: “One thing Offload up for a 10-week course on mental health almost a year, and Rugby League Cares has taught us is that the clubs are in many which involves lots of presentations from was notified in September 2016 that their ways like churches, in that their followers people in the know the answer would be bid was successful. - the fans - turn out every week to support ‘Thanks but no thanks’,” said Dr Cooper. “That’s when the real work started, not their team and in doing so they build a “However, when you approach men with least the need to recruit an experienced relationship with that club. an interest in sport and tell them that the project manager to lead the programme,” “If you take this logic to its conclusion, course is delivered by people they know said Chris Rostron. “An extensive then clubs, through their foundations and from the sport they love, at the club they feel application process was followed and with expert support from Rugby League passionate about, then you get a different Emma Goldsmith was appointed to start Cares and other organisations like State response. There’s nothing like Offload out work on the programme in January 2017. of Mind, really can make a difference to there anywhere, and I think it’s going to be a “Emma’s background was in leading people, especially when they might be huge success.” successful public health projects targeting suffering and in need of help.”

11  @rlcares ONE IN, ALL IN THE RUGBY LEAGUE CARES MAGAZINE, SUMMER/AUTUMN 2017

The tragic death of in 2010 helped focus the sport’s minds on the importance of good mental health in men

HELPING MEN BUILD A WINNING MINDSET rofessional sports coaches Having good relationships with team- have considered taking their own lives. often speak about mental mates, friends and family, talking things In 2014, there were 4,623 male suicides, fitness being as important, through and reaching out to get help, equivalent to 12 deaths a day. Shockingly, P if not more important, helps players stay mentally healthy in addition, suicide has become the single than physical and cope with challenges on and biggest killer of all men aged under 35 preparation. off the pitch. (ONS, 2014). Coaches know that things However, statistics show us that happen both on and off many men try to tough out mental CALM state that men and boys can the pitch that challenge challenges and struggle alone, often often be more vulnerable to taking our mental fitness, such leading to more serious problems. their own lives because they feel a as difficulties with work, According to male suicide pressure to; or finances, breakdown of prevention charity ‘Campaign ⊲ Be a winner and can more easily relationships, or a significant Against Living Miserably’ (CALM), feel like the opposite setback or event. These challenges can in 2014, men accounted for 76 per cent ⊲ Look strong and feel ashamed of take a serious toll on our mental health, and of suicides in the UK, and more than showing any signs of weakness if left unchecked, can worsen over time. 40 per cent of British men aged 18-45 ⊲ Appear in control of themselves

12  www.rugbyleaguecares.org IAN’S STORY… I’ve been suffering from depression for a few years now and though it’s been manageable with medication and support from people around me, there’s rarely been a time when I have felt in complete control of it. Like a lot of people with long-term illness, I Involvement in the O oad programme have good days and bad: has made a big di erence to the life of Warrington fan Ian my medication usually works but there are times when I feel really low. My depression leaves me feeling physically and mentally exhausted and it is only with wonderful support from my family, friends and work that I have been able to cope. As a lifelong Rugby League fan, I was really interested to hear more when my daughter, who had been involved in ‘Fit to Tackle’ at Warrington Wolves, said the club were getting involved in a new men’s fitness project called ‘Offload’. I’d heard nothing but good things about Rugby League Cares and knew a bit about the great work that‘State of Mind do, and after speaking to James Howes at Warrington I signed up straight away. That was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. ‘Offload’ has made a huge difference to my life, it’s been inspirational and given me new coping mechanisms to deal with my illness and live my life to the full. Time to Change, the mental health The ‘fixtures’ on Tuesday nights have been the highlight of my campaign run by charities Mind and week and I know from speaking to the other men at the sessions that ReThink Mental Illness, carried research I’m not alone: we all love it and have benefited immensely. out into men’s attitudes towards mental People can contribute or get involved as much as they like: some health. They found that compared to people are happy to talk openly about their situation whilst others like women, men are; to sit back and listen. ⊲ Less knowledgeable about mental The presentations from people like (former Super League referee) health, with more negative attitudes , Phil Veivers, Paul Highton and Jimmy Gittins, who have all ⊲ Far less likely to report their own spoken about their own coping mechanisms, have been brilliant. The experiences of mental health problems professionalism of James Howes has been exemplary. ⊲ More likely to say that mental health In my working career, I have attended a lot of seminars and courses problems are the result of a ‘lack of down the years but ‘Offload’ is by far the best. It’s a revelation, self-discipline and willpower’ especially when you consider the project is in its infancy. It’s shown me that depression affects people on so many different We also know that men are less likely to levels and that it is possible not to let it control your life. access psychological therapies. Only 36 per The big first step is having the confidence to be able to speak cent of referrals to IAPT (Increasing Access to someone about it: I’m fortunate in that I know my family to Psychological Therapies) are men. It was and friends are there for me but there are people who feel these shocking statistics that encouraged they don’t have anyone. Rugby League Cares to develop the Offload ‘Offload’ is a great way to begin to tackle depression or, for people programme. Offload has been designed to like me, to better handle the illness. help men do more of the things that make All the team members look forward to the ‘Offload’ fixture every them feel great and help them de-stress, Tuesday: we have learned so much about ourselves and each other share what is going on if they are feeling through the power of Rugby League. overwhelmed, and develop a set of tools to It’s been an absolute pleasure to be involved and I hope it becomes build their own winning mindset. a permanent fixture across the whole sport.

13  @rlcares

Players will be heavily involved promoting the Oddballs partnership

three years and this donation is our way of saying ‘Thank you’ and funding something Oddball and RL Cares we really believe is important. “Testicular cancer and the awareness of it is a key part of the OŽ oad project and a key message that we want to get across.” drive health agenda The Oddballs vehicle proved a big hit at when thousands of ugby League Cares is popular with Rugby League fans at Magic fans visited Rugby League Cares in the delighted to announce a Weekend. Fanzone at St James’ Park. new partnership with The “We are looking forward to working Emma Goldsmith, the Health R Oddballs Foundation that will with Oddballs on our OŽ oad project and Programme Manager for RL Cares, said: see the two cha rities work other initiatives to help raise awareness of “It was great to see so many people come together to support their respective men’s testicular cancer and men’s health issues.” along, many of them attracted by our health and associated projects. Oddballs Managing Director Will fantastic new Oddballs-branded van: you Set up in 2014 as an underwear Cooper said: “Partnering with Rugby certainly couldn’t miss it! We’ve spent a lot company to raise money for, and League Cares allows us to give something of time on the road since then and have awareness of, testicular cancer, Oddballs back to the Rugby League community taken the van to many matches where has established a national profi le through that have been great supporters of its presence is a great icebreaker for its sporting connections and has enjoyed what we do. Fans, players and coaches people who want to fi nd out more about strong visibility at the Super League have got behind our campaign for the last what we do.” Magic Weekends held at St James’ Park, Newcastle, in 2016 and 2017. RL Cares Health Programme Manager Emma Goldsmith receives a As part of its support for RL Cares, The donation of £15,000 and the keys to our branded Oddballs van Oddballs Foundation has made a generous £15,000 donation and provided the charity with a fully-branded vehicle that will be seen at Rugby League events over the next two years. Oddballs will also be involved in OŽ oad, the RL Cares men’s health and wellbeing project run in association with State of Mind and delivered by the charitable foundations at Salford Red Devils, Warrington Wolves and Widnes Vikings. Chris Rostron, the Head of RL Cares, said: “We are thrilled with the Oddballs Foundation’s generous support, they are a terrifi c supporter of the charity and the work we do. Oddballs have raised thousands of pounds for testicular cancer through their sales of underwear and other products which were extremely

15  @r lcares

The memories of Rugby League fans from Rochdale have helped take the game centre-stage

RUGBY LEAGUE IN THE BLOOD new project from Rugby of town and team told by those who were League Cares is swapping there in the glory days - cracking stories the whi€ of wintergreen for told in great style by some real characters. A the smell of greasepaint to “But I’m also struck by the fact that capture the roar of a crowd Rugby League remains very much a part from the perspective of fans in Oldham of both towns’ character today. I’m so and Rochdale. looking forward to seeing all this come to The treasured sporting memories of life on stage.” people from the two Pennines towns have ‘Rugby League in the Blood’ will premiere been captured to provide the raw material at Touchstones Gallery in Rochdale on for an exciting new theatrical production, Wednesday 21st October as part of the ‘Rugby League in the Blood’. town’s 2017 Literature Festival, and will The play will be showcased with four then be performed at the Flying Horse in performances in October under the Rochdale (25th October), Oldham Library directorship of celebrated writer Mick (26th October) and the Mahdlo Centre, Martin, whose works include ‘Once Upon Oldham (27th October). a Time in ’, and ‘Broken Time’, which Mick Martin said: “As a Rugby League fan tells the story of rugby’s great split in 1895. myself it’s a pleasure to hear people speak Mick has led a writing workshop with of the clubs and the towns that are so dear local volunteers to produce the play’s to their hearts, and how much the game script and has worked alongside heritage means to them. consultant Trizia Wells, who has engaged “It’s striking how deep-rooted the game with more than 60 people in Oldham is in people’s lives and families, and and Rochdale as part of the Stories to how clearly the key events, the amazing Stage project. characters and games are remembered as friendships, camaraderie, the things that “It’s been great for me to see the if they were yesterday. bind us together. enthusiasm and humour with which fans “To listen to ex-players speak of the “So the play we have constructed and players alike recount their memories of special moments in their careers, and see contains all these special memories, a Rugby League in Rochdale and Oldham,” the spark in their eyes as they re-visit the kaleidoscope of recollections, emotions, said Trizia. best days of their lives, is a humbling but images, characters and funny events as “Those who care for people who’ve special thing. these voices are captured and heard for a been to the memory groups tell me how “It’s as if they are there again, and can new generation.” much their spouses enjoyed recalling their hear the crowd - and feel the crack of a As well as some great memories and experiences, and that they’ve continued prop forward’s arm across their chest! cracking ideas for the performance, RL recalling and retelling stories once “What have I learnt? Just how much Cares has acquired two new collections of they go home. Rugby League is a shared experience just Rugby League items for the archives and “I’ve also been really struck by how like theatre, fi lled with emotion and stories, will leave the Watergrove Memory Clinic important the game is to the wider but with real tough guys not pretend ones. with a reminiscence box full of resources community. I’ve enjoyed hearing stories And how it’s really about community, and ideas for running future sessions.

17  @r lcares ONE IN, ALL IN THE RUGBY LEAGUE CARES MAGAZINE, SUMMER/AUTUMN 2017 RFL BENEVOLENT FUND HELP JOHN SMELL OF ROSES

wry smile lights up the face of John Burke as the former Wigan and Town A stand-o considers the di erence the RFL Benevolent Fund has made since the charity fi rst entered his life 10 years ago. “Well,” he says, the smile widening into a broad grin, “I hadn’t had a proper bath or shower for 30 years before the Benevolent Fund started to help me so I ought to smell a lot better now than I did back then!” His comments are accompanied with a wink at Steve Ball, the General Manager of the RFL Benevolent Fund, who is a regular visitor to John’s well-kept home between Leigh and Wigan, where the banter fl ows thick and fast. John, who celebrates his 60th birthday on 2nd September, was one of the fi rst players the RFL Benevolent Fund reached out to when it was established in 2004. By that time, over a quarter of a century John Burke in action for Wigan had elapsed since one of the most gifted against players of his generation su ered a life- changing injury playing for Workington against Leeds at . Since making contact with him a decade “The shower cubicle was too narrow A young man who had just been named ago, the Benevolent Fund has funded for me to get in safely: I had to edge in in the Great Britain squad for a Test series important modifi cations to John’s bungalow, backwards and hold the shower head against that autumn saw his including adapting his kitchen, landscaping over my back while my carers helped me,” international dreams shattered by a tackle the garden and installing a fully-functional recalls John. “It was far from ideal but the which left him tetraplegic and confi ned to a wet-room with accessible shower and Benevolent Fund have been brilliant and wheelchair for the rest of his life. facilities. have really made a di erence to my life.” John was on track for a career at the highest level when he made his professional breakthrough as a precocious teenager at Wigan. A former captain of the Leigh town team, John captained England schoolboys in the fi rst-ever ‘Test’ series against the touring Australian Combined High Schools in 1971- 72 before going on to play at Colts level with Warrington and Leigh. “I have some great memories of playing for England Schoolboys, even though we didn’t win a game!” he recalls. “The Aussies played a brand of rugby we had never seen before, it was just incredible. A lot of those players went on to achieve great things, players like Craig Young, , Robert Finch and Ian Schubert.” After playing for England Colts against France, John returned home to learn that Wigan, Leigh, Rochdale and St Helens

18 www.rugbyleaguecares.org were all keen to o er him a professional “Things moved quickly and I soon began contract. Leigh, who he had supported all to enjoy my rugby again at Workington.” his life, were widely expected to capture Having won the Lancashire Cup for the the teenage stand-o or full-back but it fi rst time in their history in 1977, the West was Wigan who won the day. Cumbrian side began the 1978-79 season “As a Leigh lad it was a diž cult decision strongly with many of their hopes resting on and though my dad would have loved to the talents of John Burke. see me play for the ‘Leythers’, he didn’t put Town acquitted themselves well in the any pressure on me and said it had to be fi rst round of the Lancashire Cup, defeating my own decision,” he remembers. Wigan 14-2, and after enjoying a bye in the “When I went to Wigan and saw the next round welcomed Leeds to Derwent set-up at it was something Park for a league match that would change special: not just the enormity of the ground John’s life forever. but the way they treated me. The size of “It was the day after my 21st birthday the contract was an infl uence but it was and I don’t really recall what actually the whole package that hooked me. happened,” he says. “I was told a pass “When you signed for Wigan you felt as came over in my direction that wasn’t if you were someone: I’m not saying that meant for me, it was meant for the centre. was the case with me but it felt like you I jumped up and caught it and fell to the John at his home were part of a bigger club with a big history fl oor in a seated position with my legs out. between Leigh and big ambitions. “I was tackled while I was on the fl oor and Wigan “On one of my fi rst days there a director and because I was sat up, my head was came up to me and said ‘Welcome to forced forward with my chin to my chest. It Wigan, John. You’ve made the right was a double dislocation of vertebrae fi ve When they fi rst met John, the Benevolent decision, you’ll win at this club’. and six. I do remember being in a lot of Fund discovered a pragmatic and positive “When I signed the coach was a St pain but not much else really. personality who was making the best of Helens schoolteacher called Joe Coan but “I should have gone to the spinal injuries circumstances that were far from ideal. soon after he left and Vince Karalius came unit on the day of the accident but they The limitations of the bathroom in with Peter Smethurst as the A-team didn’t take me until the day after. To stand arrangements were problematic and John coach. I liked Peter very much, he was a any chance of recovering from an injury was struggling to access kitchen appliances fantastic person and coach who would like mine they say you have to be treated from his wheelchair, having to use a stick to listen as well as teach you things. within four or fi ve hours but that didn’t turn the kettle on and activate plug sockets. “My career progressed from there and happen. “The RFL Benevolent Fund has made a I enjoyed my time at Central Park until I “I was taken to hospital in great di erence to my life. It wasn’t here started getting a bit disgruntled with some but there weren’t any doctors around so I when I got injured but since its introduction, of the directors. You’d tell them something spent the night there and I shouldn’t have they have been marvellous,” says John. in confi dence and pretty soon they’d all done. Being there so long didn’t do me any “They have given me my independence know about it. I didn’t like that, and I wasn’t good at all. back. I run a car on Motability which I pay the only one. “Nowadays when you see a player get for every month, but the deposit can be “Players like , Jimmy Nulty, injured they carefully put a neck brace on quite expensive. The Benevolent Fund have Bob Irvine, Bobby Blackwood and Brian and strap him to a spinal board: with me, kindly paid the deposit, which means I can Hogan all left in the space of a few months I was lifted straight from the fl oor on to get out and about now. because the club wasn’t being run right.” the stretcher and that’s when the damage “They support me greatly: if I want In 1977, John was transfer-listed by could have been done. You can’t dwell on anything I contact Steve and we work Wigan and shortly afterwards a fi ercely those things, though: it happened and now something out. If they can help, they do. ambitious Workington Town stepped in to I try to live my life as well as I can.” “I know I speak for a lot of people when pay a then club-record fee of £12,000 to John spent almost a year in hospital in I say that the Benevolent Fund is a way secure his services. Hexham and Southport and, after spending for me that says you’re not forgotten, that “I remember travelling up with my dad, weekends at home with his wife and infant someone is there for you at all times, no driving through the Lake District and daughter, it soon became clear that major matter how long it was since you were saying to him ‘It’s a bloody long way to go changes were needed. injured. for a game of rugby!’” adds John. “We were living in a semi when I was “It’s also good to meet up with Steve discharged but I couldn’t regularly, even though he costs me a manage in there so we got fortune in salmon sandwiches and biscuits some money together: every time he visits! At least when he’s Workington had set up a eating my biscuits I’m spared his terrible trust fund and I used that jokes!” money to buy land and The RFL Benevolent Fund is fi nanced build the bungalow where largely through private donations and from I live now,” says John. the levy of £1 per ticket on every seat sold “It’s a big house with at the Betfred Super League wide doors and big rooms, and the Ladbrokes Final which is great because each year. The Foundation it allows me to keep my also make a generous annual donation to independence. allow the Benevolent Fund to fulfi l its role. “I’ve had live-in carers for For more information on the RFL the last 15 years but before Benevolent Fund, including details of how then, after my marriage broke to make a donation, please visit www. up, I lived on my own.” rfl benevolentfund.co.uk

19  @r lcares ONE IN, ALL IN THE RUGBY LEAGUE CARES MAGAZINE, SUMMER/AUTUMN 2017 RUGBY LEAGUE CAMPAIGNER LEAVES WESTMINSTER LEGACY here is a certain irony that an MP who plays on the left wing for the House of Commons T Rugby League team should see his political career paused - and possibly ended - by a rival party’s swing to the left. Greg Mulholland, the former Liberal Democrat MP for Leeds North West, lost his seat in the General Election in June, when the student vote in Headingley helped send Labour’s Alex Sobel to Westminster in his place. It was a tough, cruel outcome for a politician who had forged a reputation as a respected and progressive constituency MP since winning the seat from Labour in 2005 and then retaining it in both 2010 and 2015. Going into the most recent election, the -born graduate of University was widely expected to hold the seat, that is until Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn defied all expectations with a campaign that breathed new life into ‘old Group and still hope to be involved in “Being a Leeds City Councillor for Labour’ and brought about a return to two- some capacity,” said Mulholland, who Headingley was fantastic as a Rugby party politics. got his first taste of Rugby League as an League fan and over the years I developed In his seven years representing Leeds undergraduate. a strong relationship with North West in the House of Commons as “I played at York Uni and then for a few and the Rhinos Foundation, with whom I’m a Lib-Dem, the 46-year-old campaigned community clubs and the ‘Rugby League still Vice-President. When I was elected to on a wide range of issues, from hospital bug’ really got hold of me. Like a lot of Parliament in 2005 there was no question provision in and support for small people, I found that by playing Rugby that I’d join the Parliamentary Rugby breweries to winter fuel payments for the League I became not just part of a team and League group and within a matter of weeks severely disabled and land banking. a sport but of a whole culture. I’d accepted the position of vice-chairman.” But it is in his capacity as chairman of the “We didn’t use the phrase ‘Rugby League The group brings together MPs and Parliamentary Rugby League Group that family’ back then but that’s what it felt like. members of the House of Lords with the Mulholland’s presence will be most missed It still does and it’s a family I’m incredibly specific aim of supporting Rugby League by those involved in a sport he championed proud to be part of. I wish I had devoted and its interests at Westminster and was with distinction within the Palace of more time to playing Rugby League but life set up in 1988 by former MP Westminster. got in the way: my political career, firstly as David Hinchliffe. “I have nothing but great memories of a councillor in Headingley and then as a MP, Angered and frustrated by the prejudice my time as chair of the Rugby League meant I was just too busy. and hostility the sport had traditionally

We didn’t use the phrase ‘Rugby League family’ back then but that’s what it felt like. It still does and it’s a family I’m incredibly proud to be part of...

20 www.rugbyleaguecares.org Greg Mulholland forged strong links with Leeds Rhinos during his time as the Super League club’s local MP

faced from the establishment, not least in every county in England has changed a work of art that will forever tell fans from , Hinchliffe’s energy and perceptions. And, just as Rugby League of all sports about the special historical passion led to the group winning some has changed down the years, so has the relationship between Rugby League and important battles, including the lifting of role of the group. the national stadium. the ban on playing Rugby League in the “There weren’t these great battles to be “There are other things the group did Armed Forces in 1994. fought any more but we had to be ready while I was chair that were special: we That campaigning spirit was continued to show people that Rugby League is had a wonderful reception with clubs from by Mulholland’s predecessor as chairman, important and that we as the Parliamentary and the South East which saw them Lord Lofthouse of Pontefract, who he group were ready to support it,” he said. come to the House in their club colours. succeeded in 2011. “As chair I wanted to take the vision of “Having people there from London “When Geoff (Lofthouse) stood down all those who had gone before me and Broncos and Skolars, as well as the it was a real honour and a privilege drive it forward. We gained some important likes of and to become chair of a group which victories, such as restoring the funding for , reminded everyone in was another Rugby League family to the in 2013 after Westminster that Rugby League is anything me,” he said. the Government had abolished the Regional but a ‘Northern sport’.” “The group is a set of characters who all Development Agencies, and the way in Mulholland was also instrumental in have a clear passion for Rugby League and which we successfully challenged the cuts the formation of the Political Animals, a who share the desire to give the sport a to sports coverage by BBC local radio. Westminster-based active Rugby League strong voice in London and Whitehall.” “It was good that the BBC Trust and team which continues to involve lifelong The sport’s fight for recognition Board listened to us and as a consequence fans and introduce new MPs and other and fair treatment over the years has coverage for Rugby League and other politicians to the joys of playing the sport. inevitably seen some people regard sports has been protected. “The Political Animals is a unique Rugby League supporters as a bunch of “I am also proud to have been there at way of telling people all about the sport ‘chippy Northerners’ but the growth of a the unveiling of the Wembley statue in and I’m looking forward to staying game which now has at least one team 2015, when Rugby League Cares delivered involved,” he said.

21  @r lcares ONE IN, ALL IN THE RUGBY LEAGUE CARES MAGAZINE, SUMMER/AUTUMN 2017

“When Look North re-ran the film of me scoring a try between the posts for the Political Animals at Headingley from 2008, just a few days after the election result, this year it brought a smile to my face.” Like everyone who shares the passion for Rugby League, Mulholland has his own views on how the game is run and its position within the wider sporting landscape. He is a supporter of the new structure which allows for promotion into Super League via the Super 8s and has sympathy for both the views expressed by players about the number of games they are required to play, and the owners who have to run clubs as businesses. “Rugby League is in a good place but I do feel the time has come for a wide-ranging review of the sport. It’s something we had discussed at the group, and though we felt the group wasn’t the right body to do it we could contribute,” he explained. “The game needs to know where it stands, where it’s succeeding and where the challenges and opportunities are. I would like to see this happen over the next two years and it’s something I’d be interested in being involved in alongside Greg Mulholland played an important role in persuading then Sports Minister Hugh Robertson other people. to restore funding for the 2013 RL World Cup “If you go down to Headingley, as I often do, on a nice warm Friday evening with a 20,000-strong crowd and take someone who has never been to a Rugby League at the community game and the issue count you wake up feeling like you have game before they are bowled over at what of Rugby League in schools if we are to no job, no role and no identity and that’s an amazing sport it is. If there were three or ensure that the sport can thrive. very, very hard. four more Headingleys it would be a totally “The demands we place on our best “One thing that has helped is the work different sport. Super League has been players needs to be looked at, although I have done with State of Mind, who do a thrilling over the last few seasons but the there aren’t any easy solutions. I don’t know wonderful job in the sport. challenge is below that. how elite players running at the speeds “We had a presentation at Westminster “Clearly there are challenges for clubs they do and being involved in the collisions which involved talking about that we still call semi-professional, even we see can play so many games. how he coped with the death of Terry though they aren’t much more than “There is a case for looking at that, but Newton, and Jimmy Gittins and Danny community clubs. We also need to look equally we want a Super League with Sculthorpe relating their stories about how competitive clubs and it would be harmful their rugby careers had ended. I can relate to reduce the number of clubs just to to that terrible sense of loss. Physically reduce the demands on players. I’m fine but I do wonder who I am now “The new structure works because it and what it’s all for. Reflecting on the gives Rugby League the sense that you can experiences of Brian, Jimmy and Danny has achieve: that was lacking when there was been really helpful for me.” no promotion and relegation. Every sport Mulholland’s election defeat has needs aspiration and dreams and we have provided him with an opportunity to them in Rugby League now. deliver on a promise he made to State of “We do have to do more to look after the Mind’s Malcolm Rae some months ago, health and welfare of players: they are the when the men’s health charity’s chairman sport’s most valuable assets.” learned that the now former MP was an For now, Mulholland is still coming to accomplished songwriter. terms with the election result and dealing “I told Malcolm that I’d love to write a with his unexpected unemployment: finding song for State of Mind based on the stories a new vocation, and an income to support I’d heard from people like Brian, Jimmy and his wife and three children, is a priority. Danny and the unexpected amount of time “Politics, like Rugby League, is tough and I’ve had on my hands has enabled me to you have to take it on the chin,” he said. deliver,” he said. “Even though my share of the vote went up, “It’s still very much a work in progress I still lost the seat and I have to accept that. but I have a good feeling about the song. “I think I acted with dignity when the Hopefully I can stay involved in Rugby result was announced. No-one could League in other ways, too. The sport leads say that I wasn’t a good MP and I like to the way in so many areas and organisations think I did a good job. However, losing such as Rugby League Cares do a fantastic your seat means that the day after the job. It would be great to help out if I can.”

22 www.rugbyleaguecares.org MEMORIES CLUBS OFFERING MUCH NEEDED SUPPORT FOR DEMENTIA SUFFERERS

ince the historic fi rst shout of ‘Gerremonside!’ in the 19th century, Rugby League S has possessed a fantastic ability to forge lasting memories for everyone involved at every level of the sport. Few people ever forget the feeling of their fi rst game, either as a player or a spectator, and most fans treasure their own special moment from their association with Rugby League, be it the joy of a cup fi nal win at Wembley, the relief felt on the day a team avoided relegation or a fl ash of brilliance from a favourite player. Allan Agar, a Championship winner It is these magical moments that provide with , was a guest at a recent much of the glue that holds the Rugby meeting of the Rams’ Memories Club League family together, because so many personal memories come from the shared experience of enjoying the greatest positive infl uence on her family through its Flynn, who believes every club should have game of all. impact on her father, Tony Boothroyd. its own Memories Club. Many clubs are now harnessing the power Tony, 74, was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s “It’s such a simple concept and one that of Rugby League by running Memories disease two and a half years ago, since is very e ective in tackling social isolation Clubs, which are having a transformational when the symptoms of a condition which and helping people with dementia, which impact on the lives of older supporters and causes memory loss and confusion have are challenges faced by supporters of every their families. accelerated. club in every sport,” said Martin. Memories Clubs bring together fans “Dad has been a Dewsbury fan all his life “We are more than happy to share best and their families to share stories about and the whole family are huge supporters of practice with anyone and were delighted to what makes the game, a club or its players the club,” said Allison, who has been one of help Dewsbury set up their Memories Club, so special: open to all ages, the clubs the driving forces behind the setting up of not least because of the strong connections help bring history to life, are combatting the Memories Club. that exist between us. loneliness and realising dramatic changes in “Sport is one of the few things that “Bernard Shoeman, who is involved in the lives of those su ering from dementia. captivates dad, be it sport on TV, being at our heritage group and is very active in our There are currently around 850,000 the match, or talking about old times. He Memories Club, was secretary at Dewsbury people in the UK su ering from dementia, can clearly remember so many sporting for seven years, for example, and he was a fi gure that is set to increase to two million occasions: of his own, those he’s watched able to share lots of memories.” by 2051 as an ageing population expands. from the terraces and those he’s watched Fans and players of all ages from This year, 225,000 will develop dementia, his grandchildren participate in. any club are welcome to attend, and 60 per cent of whom will be diagnosed “Sadly, because of Alzheimer’s, he can’t admission is free. with Alzheimer’s disease, for which there recall what we did earlier today or tie his Widnes Vikings have an active Memories is no cure. own shoelaces. It’s an unspeakably awful Club that meets monthly at the Chemics Rugby League Cares has recently been condition which can only get worse. But Café, where current and former players and working with to help when he’s at the match, or attending a sta from the Super League club’s charitable establish a Memories Club which meets on meeting of the Memories Club, we get him foundation interact with dementia su erers the second Wednesday of every month. back because he loves to tell the stories on reminiscence events, stadium tours and Run entirely by volunteers, the club about Dewsbury and listen to the memories low-level physical activities. provides a focal point for fans to meet of other fans. The Vikings Sport Foundation works up with fellow Dewsbury supporters and “The club is also a great way to get to in partnership with a national charity, ‘guest’ supporters of other local clubs and really know people you’ve seen at the Community Integrated Care, who continue talk about times past and present. Its most games over many years and never really to be astounded by the power of sport. recent meeting was attended by Allan had a chance to speak to.” The Hunslet Memories Club meets at the Agar, a member of the Dewsbury team that Prior to the setting up of the Memories Garden Gate pub in Whitfi eld Place on the defeated Leeds in the 1972 Championship Club at Tetley’s Stadium, Allison and Tony fi rst Wednesday of every month from noon. Final who helped guests reminisce about visited the Memories Clubs at Rochdale Refreshments and lunch are available. what was a golden period for the West Hornets, Bulldogs and Hunslet, The Dewsbury Rams Memories Club Yorkshire club. where they received a warm welcome. meets in the Amber Ribbon bar at Tetley’s For Allison Simpson, the Dewsbury The Dewsbury club was set up with strong Stadium on the second Wednesday of every Memories Club is having a profoundly support from Hunslet chief executive Martin month from noon.

23  @rlcares ONE IN, ALL IN THE RUGBY LEAGUE CARES MAGAZINE, SUMMER/AUTUMN 2017

24  www.rugbyleaguecares.org QUESTION

TIME with Jamie Peacock  The former Leeds, Bradford and Great Britain front-rower is forging a new career as football manager with and is also a trustee of Rugby League Cares. What does he think about the charity’s work? What did he get terribly wrong in 2013? And what advice does he have for the young players of today? In our exclusive interview, here is the world according to JP…

RLC: Rugby League Cares is doing The key is players having the right peaks and troughs: just like in their playing more in the fi eld of player welfare and attitude to take on these role: you can’t just days, players have to learn to manage player support: why do you think this assume that because you’ve played Rugby those peaks and troughs post-retirement. is important? League for 20 years you know everything You need a sense of purpose when JP: Playing Rugby League for a living is a there is to know about the game and what’s you fi nish: if you don’t then you will dream job but it’s also an incredibly di cult needed to run it. Players need education to struggle. It’s important for players to fi nd job to do, which is why most people can’t learn the skills that are required to run clubs a job where they feel they are making a do it. Emotionally it takes you on a roller- as businesses and prepare themselves for positive di erence. coaster ride with every aspect of what you their new career. It’s normal to fi nd it hard. It doesn’t mean do judged by thousands of people. Living I was fortunate because I ran my own you’re weak if you miss doing a job you in that kind of world can have an adverse businesses in tandem with my playing loved doing for most of your adult life which a ect on your life so the people who do career and knew a lot of the ins and outs of you can’t do it any more. it need looking after. Also, they need help administration. making the transition from doing their Playing Rugby League requires a huge RLC: What is your biggest regret from dream job when the time comes to move physical commitment from modern players your playing days? on to the next stage of their lives. but the game has moved on from the days JP: I have no regrets whatsoever about That’s why the role of Rugby League when players spent most of their time not putting in or not doing something I Cares and the club player welfare manager on the training ground: the time ought to have done as a player. However, is so important. There were no player is there for players to go into I do wish I had said yes when Steve welfare managers when I started and RL education and learn new skills. McNamara asked me to come out of Cares has only been around for a few international retirement to play for years: there were no campaigns around RLC: What was the most England in the World Cup in 2013. mindfulness or mental wellbeing 20 years di cult aspect for you about I was there at Wembley for the ago, not just in Rugby League but in transitioning from playing semi-fi nal working with the BBC society in general. at Leeds to working at Hull watching England play the Kiwis in a Thankfully things have changed for Kingston Rovers? fantastic atmosphere and I knew I had the better in the last fi ve years since RL JP: Apart from the M62?! The made the wrong decision. Cares came along, creating a shift in focus most di cult thing for me was It would have been good towards the need to protect the welfare of accepting that no matter to test myself in the NRL players. That can only be a good thing. how well you’ve but though I had a few prepared for life o ers to go, they RLC: You are one of the new breed after rugby, the never came at the of administrators drawn from the ranks transition is right time for one of ex-players: does the game need a very tough reason or another. to put more faith in the abilities of its journey for I always made former heroes? everybody. No sure I gave it my JP: I feel the opportunities are there matter who best shot when I already and we are now seeing more and you are, you played in World more players move into administrative are always Club Challenge roles and making a success of it. You only going to matches and have to look at the likes of Ian Blease at miss playing. when I pulled Salford, Kris Radlinski at Wigan and Karl Life isn’t on an England Fitzpatrick at Warrington to see how well a straight or Great former players are doing in the game. line, it’s about Britain jersey.

25  @rlcares ONE IN, ALL IN ‘ THE RUGBY LEAGUE CARES MAGAZINE, SUMMER/AUTUMN 2017

RLC: Looking back on your career, do you feel you started to think about life after rugby early enough? JP: In some ways, yes. No-one thinks about retiring or planning for life after rugby when they’re young because it all seems such a long time away, but of course it’s not. When I was 25 there was little player welfare and no pathway into education and I’m lucky that I decided to set up my own businesses back then. When I got to 30/31 I thought I need to do something about this now. Players have to use the time they have before they start having families to upskill themselves and get educated. I didn’t do it early enough and by the time I started to think about it seriously I had a lot of other commitments and responsibilities in my life.

RLC: What are the most important things a young player just setting out on his professional career needs to know? always up to the standards you get in Super least you’ll enjoy a few beers and come JP: You have to realise that just because League, but understanding that all the clubs back with a suntan: if things go the way we you are doing your dream job, not every are living within their means and using the hope, you’ll be there to witness history in day is going to be great. The best players resources they have. the making. are the ones who deal with setbacks better than everyone else: they make themselves RLC: You’re heading ‘Down Under’ with RLC: How pleased were you when you accountable to themselves, not others. If England in the World Cup this autumn to heard that there will be a Great Britain they aren’t selected or don’t play well, they work with Wayne Bennett: how optimistic Lions tour in 2019? Would you like to look at how they can address what’s gone should Rugby League fans be about be involved? wrong rather than blaming other people. England’s prospects? JP: I would love to be involved! It was Young players - and older players - should JP: They should be very optimistic fantastic to play for, and captain, Great always be self-aware of where they can for our chances, especially if we have a Britain, and I’d jump at the chance to be improve, understand what they are good at fully-fi t squad and can keep all our best part of what’s happening in 2019. and what they bring to their team. A player players together. Based on the back of the England is a great brand for all players ought to focus on three areas where they performance against in but the Great Britain jersey is truly iconic: excel and work on them one at a time. earlier this year we are in a good place when you pull on a Great Britain jersey you Also, enjoy what you do: not many people right now. The atmosphere down there was are standing on the shoulders of giants get the opportunity to do their dream job. very hostile and there was a lot of pressure because there is so much history and on the team but they stood up to it and heritage wrapped up in it. You can feel that RLC: Having spent the vast majority acquitted themselves superbly. history in the jersey. of your playing career at the highest For the fi rst time, we looked like a Wayne As a sport, we don’t have another brand level, how have you found life in the Bennett team, and Wayne Bennett teams that means as much as Great Britain and I Championship with Hull KR this year? usually achieve success. Australia still have was delighted when I heard the news that JP: It’s been a great journey for the club, some wonderful players but one of their the Lions were back on the agenda. All the which has operated like a Super League key individuals, , will be people involved in making the Lions tour club all year. There hasn’t been any dip in missing and that’s a big factor. happen deserve our thanks. standards from any department. From a If anyone is still thinking about going to personal point of view, it’s been a learning the World Cup to support England I’d say RLC: You’re dusting o‡ the boots to experience visiting grounds which aren’t get yourselves down there. At the very represent Yorkshire against Lancashire in the Origin Legends game in late-August - how much juice is left in the tank? JP: I would like to think there’s plenty left but that’s not the case! You can only go so far on vapours but I’m determined to give it my best shot, if only for Ryan Hall and Martin Gleeson. I’d just like to warn anyone who is coming to the game expecting to see us playing at the pace they remember in the past not to get too carried away! Thankfully there are as many substitutes as I had fi rst-team appearances, so none of us need to embarrass ourselves! It’s going to be a cracking game for some great causes: I’m sure everyone who goes along will love it!

26 www.rugbyleaguecares.org RUGBY LEAGUE LIONS ASSOCIATION REUNION A ROARING SUCCESS

ugby League’s Lions roared The lunch was also attended by to see even more new - and old - faces loud and proud at a historic many Lions from the 1990s and 2000s, next January. reunion event in Bradford in including , David Lyon, “The Association is very fortunate to R late January, when record Neil Harmon, Barrie McDermott, Chris have the full support of the numbers of one of the Joynt, , Keith Senior and League, who recognise the important role sport’s most exulted clubs met for their Brian Carney. the Lions play in the sport’s history.” annual luncheon. Framed certifi cates were also presented The Lions heard from Nigel Wood, Seventy fi ve members of the Rugby to the family members of late Lions, most the RFL chief executive and chairman League Lions Association came together movingly to Keith Gregory, the father of of the Rugby League International to celebrate a tradition which dates back , a tourist in 1988 and 1990, Federation, who outlined his hopes of to 1910, the year a team representing the when he captained Great Britain. a return of extended Lions tours on the Northern Union toured Australia and New Rugby League Lions Association international calendar. Zealand for the fi rst time. secretary John Ledger said: “The 2017 Nigel said he was committed to doing A Lion is any player or o‚ cial who has Lions luncheon was a hugely successful all he could to give current players the been involved in a tour or international event with 350 guests and a record opportunity to share the unique experience tournament in the southern hemisphere number of Lions. of a tour with midweek and weekend with Great Britain, England or, in the 1975 “The Association has been given a games against club and representative World Cup, . new lease of life with the help of Rugby teams that older Lions had enjoyed. For the fi rst time, the reunion luncheon League Cares and the charity’s reunions The Rugby League Lions Association saw players awarded their unique heritage programme, which aims to re-engage will gain new members this autumn when number and presented with a framed former players with the sport. England head ‘Down Under’ for the 2017 certifi cate confi rming their place in history. “We were delighted to welcome 75 Lions Rugby League World Cup and all members Working with Rugby League Cares, the to the luncheon, many of whom had not of the squad will receive special invitations Lions Association has researched the attended a reunion before, and we hope to the 2018 Lions luncheon. history of international tours ‘Down Under’ and given every player a number starting with James Lomas of Salford, the captain of the 1910 tour, who is Lion Number 1. Players are then numbered alphabetically The history of the Rugby League Lions between the fi rst tour in 1910 until the captain of the next tour, all the way and the last tournament ‘Down Under’ in 2014 is detailed in a special through to the 2014 Four Nations and Lion publication produced in partnership with Rugby League Cares. Number 582, . ‘Rugby League Lions’ also includes details of the unique heritage numbers The framed certifi cates will only be of all 582 Lions and features some fantastic and evocative images from tours presented at the reunion lunches, and at and international tournaments in the southern hemisphere. this year’s event the oldest Lions present A limited number of ‘Rugby League Lions’ are available to purchase for just were Rugby League Hall of Fame members £5, including postage, with all proceeds going to RL Cares. MBE and Lewis Jones, who To buy a copy send a cheque for £5 payable to ‘RL Cares’ to RL Lions were both members of the 1954 Great Association, 33 Banks Avenue, Ackworth, WF7 7JU. Britain tour. Alternatively, make a £5 donation to RL Cares’ Justgiving The Lions received their certifi cates from page - www.justgiving.com/rugbyleaguecares - and forward a member of the last Great Britain team confi rmation of your donation along with your name and address to to win in 1970, Malcolm Reilly [email protected] OBE, who also coached Great Britain on three tours.

27  @r lcares ONE IN, ALL IN THE RUGBY LEAGUE CARES MAGAZINE, SUMMER/AUTUMN 2017

The Rugby League family rallied around following the deaths of Danny Jones (left) and Ronan Costello

RFL BENEVOLENT FUND THERE FOR THE DARKEST HOURS

ugby League has twice been “With the experience the Benevolent safeguarding and whether the sometimes rocked by tragedy in 2017, Fund has, we are able to take out some of unforgiving nature of Rugby League needs when the sport has lost two the sharpest corners that people face in to be addressed. R players to injuries sustained their darkest hour,” said RFL Benevolent However, Steve Ball insists the game is playing the game they love. Fund General manager Steve Ball. no more dangerous than it has ever been. The deaths of Evan Hawksworth and “When tragedy occurs there is no And he believes it is safer than many give it Adam Cooper touched everyone within standard script for the family to follow which credit for. a sport that is still mourning the loss of enables them to deal with what’s happened. “In this era of social media, where Huddersfi eld Giants teenager Ronan “Because of the high-profi le nature of most people are part of a wide electronic Costello in 2016 and Danny Jones, the such events, families can feel like they’re network, there is a lot more awareness of scrum-half, in 2015. under a magnifying glass. It’s up to us to events, and certainly tragedies, now than Adam, 31, a father of three, collapsed and put a support network in place around the there was 10 or 20 years ago,” said Steve. died at the side of the pitch after playing family to lessen the extremes that death “Lots of tragedies have occurred in the for Warrington-based Culcheth Eagles at sometimes brings. past and not featured on the radar of most Runcorn in early July. Less than two weeks “The Benevolent Fund also brings a focal Rugby League fans: nowadays people later, 14-year-old Evan died after suŠ ering point for the wider Rugby League family hear of someone dying within hours, and a serious head injury in a freak accident to direct its eŠ orts through one channel sometimes minutes, of tragedy striking. playing for Wakefi eld-based Stanley rather than hundreds. Our work allows well- “It’s understandable for people to Rangers against Batley Boys. meaning people to focus their energy and question whether Rugby League has On all four occasions, the Rugby League love into doing the best thing. become more dangerous when we get two family has rallied around the families “It’s not uncommon for families to say to deaths in such a short space of time, but of the players involved, raising tens of me how grateful they are for the love that that’s not the case. thousands of pounds and staging strong the wider Rugby League family has shown “It’s a sad fact of life that people who are and emotional shows of support in their them, how amazed they are by the kindness active in sport are susceptible to injury but hour of need. of strangers who share a common bond Rugby League is no more prone to tragedy The tragedies have also seen the RFL through their love of Rugby League.” than any other sport. For example, more Benevolent Fund bring its fantastic and The proximity of the tragedies involving people are killed or suŠ er life-changing sensitive expertise to bear in what are Evan Hawksworth and Adam Cooper injuries every year from riding ponies than di“ cult and terrible times for all concerned. have inevitably raised questions about from playing Rugby League.”

28 www.rugbyleaguecares.org Front-rower Neil Harmon in action throughout his career

RL CARES OFFERING SUPPORT TO PROPERTY INVESTORS

ugby League Cares is a claim for €60,000 from a failed investors but when their case was working with current and investment in a Moroccan property overturned by the Spanish Supreme former players to help them development in 2006. Court, the resolution we all wanted R reclaim millions of pounds “A mate and I both put down deposits of became possible,” he added. that were lost as a result €60,000 on an ‘o€ -plan’ project in 2006 Because of the current weakness of of the collapse of the European housing that was scheduled to be completed in the Pound against the Euro, Neil and markets in 2008. 2008,” said Neil. other investors are set to win back their Rugby League players were among “I’d invested a lot of the income from my original investment, plus an additional thousands of investors who saw their playing days in property and at the time ‘bonus’ that will go some way to making investments wiped out when real estate ‘o€ -plan’ buy-to-let schemes, particularly up for the stress and anxiety the prices in countries like Spain and Morocco o€ shore ones, were widely recommended. experience has caused. fell rapidly, prompting many developers “Unfortunately in 2008 when we should “We invested ‘o€ -plan’ in good faith to go under. have been paying the balance for the and were victims of the bursting of the Until recently there was believed to completed property, the banks pulled the property bubble,” said Neil. “This is part be no legal recourse for people who had plug on hundreds of developments and of my pension, I can ill-a€ ord to lose such invested in properties that were never everything stopped. a sizeable chunk of money and I’m sure built, but a little-known Spanish law is now “The advice we, and countless other there will be other Rugby League players providing hope for investors who in many investors got, was that there was no out there in the same situation. cases lost their life savings. chance of getting our money back, but “I would urge any player who lost It is estimated that British investors then it emerged that protection did exist money through dealings with Spanish could claim back up to £4billion from under Spanish law.” banks in the 2000s to get in touch with Spanish banks. Although Neil had invested in a Rugby League Cares.” Working in conjunction with legal experts Moroccan development, the funds were If you are a current or former player on a no-win, no- fee basis, Rugby League transferred via a Spanish bank which, who lost money by investing in ‘o€ -plan’ Cares is asking players who may have lost under Spanish law, had a legal duty to hold property schemes in Europe in the 2000s out to get in touch for a free consultation. the deposits until such time as the property please contact the Head of RL Cares, The charity was alerted to the situation was completed. Chris Rostron, on chris.rostron@RLcares. by Neil Harmon, the former Warrington, “The banks initially took a hard org.uk All communications will be treated Leeds and prop, who is pursuing line and refused to co-operate with in the strictest confi dence.

29  @r lcares ONE IN, ALL IN THE RUGBY LEAGUE CARES MAGAZINE, SUMMER/AUTUMN 2017 POCKETS DEEP MOUNTAIN HIGH: £25,000 RAISED FOR DANNY JONES DEFIBRILLATOR FUND Barrie McDermott looks back on a memorable National Three Peaks walk which raised more than £25,000 for the Danny Jones Defi brillator Fund...

t didn’t, on the face of it, seem So, when Lizzie Jones and I discussed It was only a few days after speaking to to be too much of a challenge. the idea of doing a fundraising venture the amazing Lizzie that I learned that the As an Oldham lad, hills hold on behalf of the Danny Jones Defi brillator national three peaks had a sting in the tail: I no fear for the likes of us: Fund, it seemed perfectly sensible to stick to complete the challenge, you have to walk not their steepness, nor the to what I know. I’d climbed Kilimanjaro up (and down) Ben Nevis, Scafell Pike and inclement weather. There’s nothing wrong and gone to Everest base camp with the Snowdon in just 24 hours. with a bit of damp and cold, as anyone who Steve Prescott Foundation and loved the I knew It was going to be tough, and ever visited will tell you. experience, so the Three Peaks - that’s the when the going gets tough you need your The windchill was once so bad at a three tallest mountains in , England mates on your side: a few phone calls Roughyeds home game that one of my and Wales, not those small Yorkshire lumps later, I’d roped in some of the lads from mates put his jumper on. But only for 10 I did last year - seemed like a walk in the my old amateur club Waterhead - fi rst- minutes in the second-half, mind. (national) park. team coach Jon Perks, ex-players Darrel Rogers and Neil Wheeler and club chairman Tommy ‘Lewis Hamilton’ Howe to join me on the challenge, as well as a fat lad and ‘Headmasters RL sub’ from Widnes called O’Connor. Waterhead are one of the clubs who have purchased a life-saving defi brillator with help from the Danny Jones fund, which was set up in memory of the former Wales and Keighley half-back who collapsed and died playing for the Cougars at two years ago. I didn’t know Danny well but, like everyone in Rugby League, I was in awe of the work his wife Lizzie has done to raise awareness of cardiac health and raise money with the goal of putting a defi brillator in every amateur and junior club in the country. As well as the Waterhead crew and the chunky one from Widnes, numbers quickly grew. Lizzie said she was up for it as well, as were some of her mates, and within a few weeks there were 22 of us signed up, all raising money for the defi b fund. The walkers also included former pros and Chico Jackson, for whom subtitles would have been helpful: that Hull accent is something else, isn’t it! With some fantastic sponsors on board, including Give Local Yorkshire and Arrow Self Drive, who supplied a fl eet of mini buses to transport the walkers to, from and between the mountains, we set o› on the afternoon of Saturday 10th June.

30 www.rugbyleaguecares.org Picture by Bruce Fitzgerald Photography

Most of the walkers had wisely travelled your feet tripping you up. Things were was ‘Stay safe lads;’ the wonderful duo up to Ben Nevis the night before, when easier with O’Connor: every team needs a Mr and Mrs Hicks were a sight for sore Terry and I were on commentary duty with furry mascot and while he’s not got much eyes with more bacon and egg butties at Sky in Salford, and the scale of what we fur up top, we were delighted to have him the foot of Scafell Pike in the middle of a were taking on hit home on the long, long along as an honorary Waterhead old boy. weary night; and Getbuzzing and Nutrition drive up to Scotland on Saturday morning. With the emphasis on old. X kept us going with their energy and You fi nd out lots about yourself on A mascot needs a name and pretty soon hydration expertise. challenges like this: you also fi nd out lots we were all on familiar terms with ‘Terry The support we got was awesome about your mates, not least the fact that the Big Fat Pig’, who may not be the fastest beyond words: Julia Lee, the former match some of them have very small bladders. at going up mountains but all that weight o¢ cial, did a fantastic job with all the But, after lots of stops, we fi nally reached comes into its own on the way down. He’s organising and logistics, and the know-how Ben Nevis and the adventure was on. a one-man walking avalanche… and mountain leadership of the people at They say the sun shines on the righteous They say an army marches on its Carnegie Great Outdoors were invaluable. but the Scottish weather gods must have stomach, which is literally true for the There were a lot of tired walkers at the overlooked the fact that Terry O’Connor Waterhead boys, and we were indebted end, countless blisters, aching shoulders, was in our midst because it was absolutely to some incredible people for keeping us knees and joints plus some soggy, worn- gorgeous on the fi rst ascent and descent, fuelled on the walk. out equipment but to a man and woman when waterproofs stayed tucked away Our good friends from Le Munch we still had plenty in the tank for the in rucksacks. Bunch in Halifax did us proud with their bar on Sunday. On a long walk in a group it’s really sandwiches, although Lizzie’s mistake was We raised a lot of money on the Give easy to fi nd yourself talking to very boring putting them all in our van! We rationed Local Three Peaks Challenge which will people and that was the case on all three them to only three each. help make this glorious game of ours peaks - no matter how fast you walk to Waterhead chairman Tommy Howe is even safer for thousands of young people try and get away from him, shaking o› surely up for the Man of Steel award after across the country. There’s still time to ex-Waterhead player Kevin Sinfi eld is an putting on bacon butties on a travel stove donate to this brilliant cause: please visit impossible task. And when it looks like for us all when we came o› Ben Nevis; www.justgiving.com/fundraising/danny- you’re going to succeed, he’s there under plus, his fi nal words for each mountain jones-3-peaks

31  @r lcares ONE IN, ALL IN THE RUGBY LEAGUE CARES MAGAZINE, SUMMER/AUTUMN 2017

Castleford CEO Steve Gill captures his memories for the virtual museum (left) HIGH FLYING TIGERS CHAMPION THEIR PAST LIKE NEVER BEFORE

hey have been the team of a fully searchable database which Digital arts organisation One to One the moment throughout 2017, includes fi lms, audio interviews, artwork, Development Trust secured the contract to a season when their exploits photographs and articles. deliver the project, which makes the most of T in Super League have seen Accessed via a dedicated website, the the Wakefi eld-based company’s experience Castleford Tigers top the table database pulls together the countless in using video game engine technology. for the fi rst time in their history. strands that run through the history of a “We have involved volunteers in all This summer, coach and his club which continues to be the focal point aspects of the project, from the collection players have enhanced the club’s long- of the local community. and digitisation of material through to established reputation for playing attractive, “We wanted to create something that creating fi lms and audio interviews and free-fl owing and e› ective Rugby League: captures what Castleford RLFC means to in the design, layout and curation of rarely since their inaugural season in 1926 the town and to everyone who is, or has the exhibitions,” explained One to One have Castleford been classier. been, involved with the club at every level,” Development Trust Chief Executive But it is not just on the fi eld where the said Stephen Ball, a trustee of the Tigers Judi Alston. Tigers have set the standard to which other Trust who has played a pivotal role in “Castleford Tigers are leading the way clubs should aspire: o› the pitch, Castleford the project. with this innovative heritage project. It will have led the way by championing “There isn’t anything like this at any other be a great asset, not just to Castleford fans their heritage in a manner that is every club in any sport in this country, as far as but to Rugby League supporters all over bit as classy. we are aware: we’re very proud of what we the world.” Using 3D digital technology, Castleford have achieved. For now, the virtual museum is only have begun to celebrate the past like never “It’s taken a lot of hard work by accessible via a PC but the Trust is seeking before by launching an online archive and a fantastically committed group of the funding needed to make it compatible virtual museum to showcase a wealth of volunteers to get to where we are. This on Mac and iOS devices. photography, memorabilia, audio and video. is merely the start point: there is so much “We want as many people as possible to While the likes of , Greg more we can do.” be able to access this fantastic resource,” Eden and have been turning on The project began life in 2015 with an said Stephen Ball. “From young children to the style, the careers and exploits of the application for Heritage Lottery Funding to their grandparents, the museum is a great other heroes who form equally important build on interest in the history of Castleford way of engaging with everyone who cares strands of Castleford’s DNA have been Tigers stimulated by an exhibition in the about Castleford Tigers.” plucked from history and placed in the town’s library. To download the Castleford Tigers here and now. With limited physical space at the Mend- virtual museum please visit archive. The online archive - or ‘Memory Box’ - a-Hose Jungle, a situation that is unlikely castigersheritage.com/virtual.asp is packed full of evocative recollections to change when the club moves to its To search the 2,000-plus items in from fans, o¢ cials and players for whom long-delayed new stadium, the Tigers Trust the Memories Box chronicling the Castleford has been, and remains, a hugely took the far-reaching decision to establish a club’s rich heritage please visit archive. important part of their lives. It comprises virtual museum. castigersheritage.com/memorybox.asp

32 www.rugbyleaguecares.org Batley Girls Under-16s’ trip to Australia acted as inspiration for new play, The Ruck Images courtesy of Paul and Michelle Kilburn RUGBY LEAGUE INSPIRED PLAY HITS THE STAGE

ugby League Cares has As part of the extended relationship, ‘The Ruck’ is secured second-year IVE will continue to support the the story of how investment from IVE, the Rugby AM Academy Gold Arts Award in 2015 Batley R Yorkshire-based creative arts programme, which this year will identify Girls Under- and culture agency, to deliver and work with students from Priesthorpe 16s shattered projects based on the Arts Council’s Arts School in Leeds. one of sport’s Award framework. Rugby League Cares has also been most enduring The Cultural Partnership investment working with Creative Scene, an Arts glass ceilings, allows RL Cares to continue working with Council England-funded organisation overcoming the charitable club trusts and foundations at which aims to make art a part of everyday discrimination, Huddersfi eld Giants, Hull Kingston Rovers life for people in Batley, Birkenshaw, family di‚ culties and Leeds Rhinos on a wide range of Birstall, Cleckheaton, Dewsbury, Gomersal, and friendship issues. participant-led performance arts initiatives. Heckmondwike, and Mirfi eld. Written by award-winning playwright IVE is one of 10 Arts Council-funded This link will see the Huddersfi eld Giants Kevin Fegan, ‘The Ruck’ will have its world bridge organisations connecting the cultural Community Trust work alongside Creative premiere at the Lawrence Batley Theatre in and education sectors to give children Scene on a new play inspired by the Huddersfi eld on Saturday 16th September and young people access to great art and real-life story of the fi rst UK girls’ Rugby before performances at Wakefi eld, cultural opportunities. League team to tour Australia. Doncaster and Barnsley. Creative Scene will run a performance arts workshop with youngsters from the Huddersfi eld Giants Community Trust during the October half-term, incorporating many of the songs and scenes from ‘The Ruck’. Vicky Holliday, the creative producer, said the workshop examines a wide range of themes around the play, including the physical challenge of adapting a game of Rugby League to the stage. “After coming to the Lawrence Batley Theatre to see the performance, the young people from the Giants Trust will also be doing some team building work and some creative writing looking at how to turn a true story into drama. It’s an amazing story and an inspirational piece of theatre that will appeal to anyone with a passion for sport or theatre, or both!”

33  @r lcares ONE IN, ALL IN THE RUGBY LEAGUE CARES MAGAZINE, SUMMER/AUTUMN 2017

hile the players, o cials and supporters of Hull FC and head for the W 2017 Ladbrokes Challenge Cup Final aboard luxury coaches, trains and cars, a hardy group of Rugby League fans will be taking a more testing route to Wembley. On Monday 21st August, 15 cyclists, including 1998 Wembley winner Keith Senior and 2004 Challenge Cup fi nalist Chev Walker, will set out on a marathon 320-mile o‹ -road ride from Headingley Carnegie to Wembley in aid of Rugby League Cares. Travelling along riverside paths, forest trails and bridleways, the riders on the UK Red Ride to Wembley will work their way south via She eld, Chesterfi eld, Nottingham, Loughborough, Leicester, Northampton, Milton Keynes and St Albans before arriving at the Wembley Stadium Rugby League Legends statue on the eve of the cup fi nal, Friday 25th August. The ride’s title sponsors are UK Red Fire and Security, a Leeds-based company which utilises state-of-the-art technology and expertise to provide protection to homes and businesses across the country. UK Red have been joined by a host of other corporate sponsors, including All UK Red Fire and Security director Dean Sport Insurance, IT consultants Infi nity Bettison (centre) saddles up with Keith Works, NL Van, Truck and Car Hire, Senior and Head of RL Cares Chris Rostron P ci tu re b y R o g e r S a u n d e rs Environmental Services Design, Yorkshire Boilers, Halfords and Club Doncatser Foundation. Chris Rostron, the Head of Rugby League Cares who is one of the 15 riders, said: “It’s fantastic to see former players pitching in to help the charity by taking part in the UK Red Ride to Wembley and what will be an epic fi ve days. “RL Cares works closely with both current and past players and the funds we raise on the ride will allow us to continue our sterling work supporting the game’s most important Rugby League Cares does and the way it “Since I retired six years ago I’ve stakeholders. I would like to thank all our impacts positively on the lives of people undertaken some massive challenges for corporate sponsors for their generous involved at every level of the sport. great causes and this is up there with the support: we’re also grateful to the hundreds “When I pitched the idea of the UK Red toughest of them,” said Keith. of individuals who are supporting us by Ride to Wembley to Chris and a few “I struggled to make the transition to the sponsoring the riders.” others, the response was fantastic and it’s next stage of my life at the end of my The participants also include former great to have so many familiar, and new playing career and it would have been so Salford player Paul Highton, ex-Wakefi eld faces, joining us for the fi ve days. much smoother had Rugby League Cares Trinity chief executive James Elston, Rugby “I really hope players and fans alike get been around back then to o‹ er the AM TV presenter Alex Simmons and RL behind us by digging deep and sponsoring support they now provide to Cares sta‹ members Emma Goldsmith and the riders. Rugby League Cares goes to current players. John Ledger. such great lengths to help people, it would “When Chris Rostron rang and asked me Kevin Walton, the Managing Director of be nice to see that sterling work get the if I fancied joining him on a sponsored ride UK Red Fire and Security, said: “My recognition it deserves.” from Leeds to Wembley I jumped at the colleague Dean Bettison and I rode from Keith Senior, who cycled through South chance. It was only when I signed up that London to last year and raised £1,500 America last summer alongside Paul he told me we weren’t going to be doing it for Rugby League Cares, and this year Highton as part of the team that rode to on tarmac though…” wanted to do something a bit more Rio in aid of RL Cares and the Jane If you would like to sponsor the ride to challenging and nearer to home. Tomlinson Fund, said he was “almost” Wembley, either as an individual or “We’re both keen Leeds Rhinos fans and looking forward to getting back company, please visit www.justgiving. have nothing but admiration for the work in the saddle! com/fundraising/kevin-walton10

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